TEXANS-CHARGERS REACTION
6 important takeaways from Lovie Smith's Week 4 Houston Texans presser
Oct 3, 2022, 2:38 pm
TEXANS-CHARGERS REACTION
Houston Texans head coach Lovie Smith met with the media on Monday and answered their questions about the Texans' 34-24 loss to the Chargers on Sunday. Here are some takeaways from the presser.
The Texans have been in every game. I guess that's something positive this season. Although the 10 point loss was not as close as it seemed, Lovie saw it differently. He saw it as a great sign that the Texans had the ball in the fourth quarter with chance to take the lead. Let's not forget, they went down 21-0 before Dameon Pierce's long TD run in the second quarter. And they only had seven points on the board until about 1:15 left in the 3rd quarter.
Lovie had to defend Rex Burkhead's usage, again. When Lovie was asked why Burkhead was in the game on an important 4th and 1 play, Lovie pointed to the TD Burkhead scored and asked why nobody had an issue with him being in the game on that play. Lovie also pointed out that the play failed because nobody blocked Khalil Mack, and Burkhead was not at fault.
Dameon Pierce had a breakout game, but he still wasn't on the field for the biggest play of the game on 4th down. Lovie repeatedly told the media that Pierce can't be on the field for every play, but he's clearly missing the point. People are concerned about Pierce not playing in high leverage situations. No one expects Pierce to play every snap of the game. Pierce finished with 131 rush yards on 14 carries. He also caught 6 passes for 8 yards receiving.
Lovie said this was the team's worst performance on defense. The defense was unable to turn the ball over and Justin Herbert was only sacked once while throwing for 340 yards and 2 TDs. The Texans rush defense gave up some big scores to Chargers RB Austin Eckler, but they kept the rushing yards in check. The Chargers only rushed for 81 yards on Sunday.
The Texans aren't making a QB change, according to Lovie Smith. Before Dameon Pierce ripped off his long TD run, making the score 21-7, backup QB Kyle Allen was seen with his helmet on getting loose. Many believed he might soon be entering the game, but Pierce's impressive run may have gotten Mills off the hook. The team has no plans to replace Mills at this time.
Special teams did a nice job causing a turnover in the fourth quarter, but Davis Mills and the Texans offense were unable to capitalize and settled for a field goal. Lovie mentioned that he was happy the team had a chance to take the lead in the fourth quarter, but after the Texans field goal, the Chargers went right down the field and scored a TD to ice the game. Hardly something to be excited about.
Be sure to check out the video above to hear Lovie's full commentary on the game.
Up next: The Texans head to Jacksonville to play the Jaguars on Sunday.
Houston Texans quarterback CJ Stroud joins First Take on Tuesday and shares his outlook for the season with Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith.
One of the biggest factors that could swing the Texans season has to be the rebuilt offensive line. Stroud was the second-most sacked quarterback last season, and Houston knew that had to change.
Smith asked Stroud about the revamped unit, and CJ had really good things to say about the tackle play with rookie Aireontae Ersery and Tytus Howard.
Stroud also credits the new scheme, believing the changes they're making will prevent some of the issues from last year from happening again. Specially, they're looking to get the ball out quicker and move the pocket to give the linemen more help.
Finally, Stroud discussed the new-look receiving corps, and how the Texans will replace Joe Mixon early in the season.
Don't miss the video below for the full conversation!
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